Keeping high value products frozen across Europe’s cold chain means juggling temperature control, regulatory compliance and sustainability. Europe dry ice packs provide ultra low temperatures without messy meltwater while complying with air and road transport rules. Europe’s food cold chain logistics market is expected to grow from about USD 74.70 billion in 2025 to USD 114.78 billion by 2030, and the Europe dry ice market is projected to reach roughly USD 134.10 million by 2032. Understanding how these packs work, how to pack them correctly and what 2025 regulations require will help you deliver frozen goods safely and sustainably.
Compare Europe dry ice packs with gel packs and phase change materials to decide which refrigerant suits your shipment.
Follow IATA and ADR rules for labelling, venting and weight limits.
Use easy formulas to calculate the right amount of dry ice and pack shipments step by step.
Navigate the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) coming into force in 2025–2026.
Understand market trends, sustainability innovations and supply challenges shaping Europe’s cold chain.
Why choose Europe dry ice packs for cold chain shipping?
Quick answer: Europe dry ice packs offer reliable ultra cold performance and convenience while meeting ADR and IATA requirements. They maintain temperatures from −60 °C to −40 °C for 36–72 hours and leave no water residue, making them ideal for vaccines, biologics, seafood and gourmet desserts. Unlike loose dry ice pellets, these pre sealed packs minimise CO₂ vapour release, reduce frostbite risk and stack neatly in insulated boxes. This combination of performance and compliance explains their growing popularity in cross border shipments across Europe’s diverse climates.
How do dry ice packs work and what makes them different?
Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide that sublimates directly from a solid to a gas at −78.5 °C. In a dry ice pack, CO₂ is encased in a leak proof composite film with a super absorbent polymer matrix. As the CO₂ sublimates, it absorbs heat from the surroundings, maintaining sub freezing temperatures for 24–72 hours, depending on pack size and insulation. Because there is no melting water, there is less risk of damaging packaging or product labels. The flexible design means packs remain pliable after freezing, allowing them to wrap around irregular items and fit tightly into insulated boxes. Lightweight construction reduces shipping weight and cost.
Comparison with gel packs and phase change materials
| Cooling method | Typical temperature range & duration | HazMat status & reusability | What this means for you |
| Dry ice pack | −60 °C to −40 °C; 36–72 h | Hazardous (UN 1845) unless fully encased; single use | Provides ultra cold conditions for urgent shipments (vaccines, biologics, frozen seafood); requires venting and labelling but delivers superior cold stability |
| Gel pack | 0 °C to −10 °C; 12–48 h | Non hazardous; reusable | Ideal for chilled foods, beverages and meal kits; risk of meltwater and limited duration |
| Phase change material (PCM) | +2 °C to −20 °C depending on formulation; 24–96 h | Non hazardous; reusable | Suitable for vaccines, biologics and high value drugs; higher upfront cost but supports specific temperature ranges |
Practical tips and benefits for you
Sub zero performance: Dry ice packs maintain ultra cold temperatures (−60 °C to −40 °C) so your vaccines and research samples stay frozen.
Leak proof film: The composite film prevents CO₂ crystals from escaping while allowing gas venting, reducing frostbite risk and avoiding dangerous pressure build up.
Flexible design: Packs remain pliable after freezing, making them easy to wrap around irregular products and maximise space.
Lightweight structure: Thin layers and polymer matrices keep packs lightweight, lowering shipping costs and improving handling.
Non hazardous alternatives: Some packs encase CO₂ snow within sealed cells, classifying them as non hazardous. This can bypass certain ADR/IATA rules and avoid hazmat surcharges.
Real case: A Los Angeles dessert company switched from loose dry ice to dry ice replacement pack sheets for shipments to Europe. By layering flexible packs in insulated boxes, they extended transit time from 36 to 60 hours and reduced CO₂ use by 20 %, avoiding hazmat fees and improving customer satisfaction.
How to pack and ship with Europe dry ice packs correctly?
Quick answer: Follow the IATA PI 954 weight limit of 200 kg per package and use formulas to size your coolant. Vent packages to release CO₂ gas, label them with the UN 1845 code and net weight, and document the shipment. Pre cool products, use proper insulation and monitor temperatures to maintain cold chain integrity.
Step by step packing instructions
Pre freeze your product: Chill or freeze goods to at least −20 °C for ≥24 hours before packing. This reduces the initial cooling load.
Put on PPE: Wear cryo gloves, goggles and an apron to avoid frostbite.
Calculate the required dry ice: Use the rule of thumb formula: Dry ice (kg) = [product mass (kg) × 1.1 × transit days] × 1.15 (safety buffer). For example, shipping 5 kg of steak for 48 h requires ≈12.7 kg of dry ice.
Prepare the container: Select a double wall carton or insulated box; add 30 mm EPS or foam liner. Drill small ventilation holes (≈6 mm) to allow CO₂ gas to escape.
Place the packs: Top load dry ice packs on all six sides (above, below and around the product). Use the “sandwich method”: one layer at the bottom, products in the middle, another layer on top.
Seal and label: Tape flaps but keep vents open; mark the package “UN 1845, Carbon Dioxide, Solid, net __ kg” and attach a Class 9 hazard label.
Documentation: Tick “Dry Ice” on the airway bill (no dangerous goods declaration required for non hazardous contents) and ensure the net weight is recorded.
Choosing the right amount of dry ice
The quantity of dry ice depends on the product’s mass, transit duration and insulation quality. The article on dry ice packaging suggests a quick calculator: multiply the product mass by 1.1, multiply by transit days, then multiply by 1.15 for a safety buffer. Another guideline for sheet packs is to use one 24 cell sheet for about 12 hours of cooling per 100 L of container volume. For smaller shipments, roughly 5–10 lb (2.3–4.5 kg) of dry ice is needed per 24 hours.
Tips and mistakes to avoid
Pre cool containers and payloads: Refrigerate the insulated box and products before packing to maximise hold time.
Ensure ventilation: Never seal dry ice in airtight containers; small vent holes are essential.
Wear protective gear: Dry ice can cause severe frostbite; always use insulated gloves and eye protection.
Dispose safely: Let unused dry ice sublimate outdoors in a well ventilated area; do not pour it down drains or discard it in sealed bins.
Check carrier and country requirements: Some airlines impose stricter weight limits or require special approval. Always verify with carriers and national authorities.
Practical example: A seafood exporter from France shipped frozen fish to Germany using dry ice pack sheets. By pre cooling containers, layering sheets and venting properly, they maintained product quality and avoided thawing.
Understanding Europe’s 2025 regulations for dry ice shipping
Quick answer: Europe’s regulatory landscape requires vented, labelled and recyclable packaging. Dry ice is classified as a Class 9 hazardous material (UN 1845) under ADR and IATA rules. Airlines limit dry ice to 200 kg per package and require packages to be vented, labelled with the UN number and net weight. The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) entered into force on 11 February 2025; its general application begins in August 2026. The PPWR aims to make all packaging recyclable by 2030, reduce virgin materials and increase recycled content.
Core ADR/IATA rules
Vented packaging: Packages must allow CO₂ gas to escape; airtight containers are prohibited.
Weight limitations: Air shipments cannot exceed 200 kg of dry ice per package and may be subject to lower limits on some airlines.
Marking and labelling: Packages must be marked “Carbon Dioxide, solid” or “Dry Ice,” display the UN 1845 number and show the net weight of dry ice. A Class 9 hazard label is required.
Documentation: Shippers must note dry ice on the airway bill and, when necessary, provide a Dangerous Goods Declaration. Carriers like UPS may require an International Special Commodity (ISC) agreement.
Airline acceptance: The IATA 66th DGR Addendum notes that airlines limit dry ice carriage based on aircraft type; net weight must be provided during booking to ensure limits are not exceeded.
EU Good Distribution Practice (GDP) for pharmaceuticals
For pharmaceutical shipments, the EU GDP guidelines require temperature mapping and validation of storage and transport equipment, validated containers for specific temperature ranges (2–8 °C or 15–25 °C) and quality management systems with supplier qualification and training. Data loggers must be calibrated and real time monitoring employed. Documentation of packaging validation, shipping routes and temperature data must be retained for inspection.
Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)
The PPWR (EU 2025/40) replaces the Packaging Directive and introduces harmonised rules for all packaging placed on the EU market. It entered into force on 11 February 2025 and will apply after an 18 month transition period (general application from 12 August 2026). Key provisions include:
Design & volume efficiency: E commerce parcels must minimise empty space; empty space may not exceed 40 %.
Digital labelling: From 2027, packaging must carry digital identifiers (e.g., QR codes) linking to environmental information.
Mandatory recycled content: From 2030, minimum recycled content thresholds will apply to various plastic packaging types.
Reusable shipping option: From 2030, online sellers must offer a reusable shipping option at checkout.
Extended scope: Non EU companies shipping directly to EU consumers must appoint an authorised representative in the EU.
The European Commission notes that packaging waste accounted for about 40 % of plastics used in the EU and 186.5 kg of waste per person in 2022. The PPWR aims to make all packaging recyclable in an economically viable way by 2030, increase recycled plastics and reduce virgin materials. It also sets recycling targets: by 2025, 50 % of plastic packaging and 70 % of metals and glass must be recycled; by 2030, at least 70 % of all packaging waste must be recycled.
Selecting the right Europe dry ice pack: factors and formulas
Quick answer: Match your product’s temperature needs, transit duration and hazard classification with the appropriate pack type. Use formulas to estimate required cooling and consider sustainability and regulatory classification.
Key factors to consider
Temperature requirements: Ultra cold pharmaceuticals (mRNA vaccines or cellular therapies) need temperatures below −60 °C, while frozen foods typically require −20 °C to −40 °C. Dry ice packs deliver the latter range; deeper cold may require cryogenic gel packs or extra dry ice.
Duration and volume: For long journeys (>48 h), estimate one 24 cell dry ice sheet per 12 hours of cooling for every 100 L of container volume. For shorter trips or small parcels, gel packs may suffice.
Hazard classification: Packs that encase CO₂ crystals inside sealed cells can be classified as non hazardous. Non hazardous packs simplify compliance but confirm classification with your supplier.
Reusability & sustainability: Reusable PCM plates or gel packs have higher upfront costs but can be cycled multiple times, reducing waste. Dry ice packs are single use but can be recycled through appropriate programmes.
Sustainability materials: Choose recyclable outer cartons, biodegradable insulation and suppliers offering curbside recyclable liners to align with PPWR goals.
Table: Factors influencing dry ice pack selection
| Factor | Considerations | Practical advice |
| Temperature range | Ultra cold (< −60 °C) vs. frozen (−20 °C to −40 °C) | Use dry ice packs for frozen goods; combine dry ice with gel or PCM for ultra cold pharmaceuticals |
| Transit duration | <24 h, 24–48 h, >48 h | One 24 cell sheet per 12 h per 100 L of volume; add extra sheets for delays |
| Hazard classification | Hazardous vs. non hazardous | Non hazardous packs reduce documentation; verify classification with the supplier |
| Reusability | Single use vs. reusable | PCM plates/gel packs offer reusability; weigh cost vs. waste |
| PPWR compliance | Recyclability, recycled content | Choose recyclable materials and packaging that meet EU recycling targets |
User oriented recommendations
Perishable foods: For frozen seafood or meat, use dry ice packs with foam or vacuum insulation. Add at least one pack per day of transit; tape the lid loosely to allow ventilation.
Pharmaceuticals and biologics: Combine cryogenic gel packs or PCM plates with validated temperature loggers; use regulated containers and follow EU GDP guidelines.
E commerce and meal kits: Gel packs may suffice for overnight delivery; for 2–3 days, consider dry ice packs but ensure customers understand handling instructions.
Research specimens: For ultra cold samples (< −70 °C), use dry ice packs or small amounts of loose dry ice in vented containers and ensure compliance with IATA documentation.
Practical example: A biotech firm shipping gene editing materials from Germany to Spain used a combination of dry ice packs and PCM plates with a data logger. The hybrid solution maintained −70 °C for 60 hours, complied with ADR/IATA rules and satisfied EU GDP requirements.
Market outlook and trends for Europe’s cold chain and dry ice industry
Quick answer: Europe’s cold chain is growing rapidly, driven by e commerce, pharmaceuticals and frozen foods, while sustainability and digital innovations shape the future.
Growth of Europe’s cold chain logistics
Europe’s food cold chain logistics market is estimated at USD 74.70 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 114.78 billion by 2030 (CAGR ≈ 8.97 %). Frozen meat and poultry lead the product segments, and refrigerated transportation accounts for more than half of revenue. Germany remains the largest market; Poland and other Eastern European countries are experiencing rapid growth thanks to e commerce expansion and cross border trade.
Dry ice market developments
The Europe dry ice market was valued at USD 89.39 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 5.2 % from 2025 to 2032, reaching about USD 134.10 million by 2032. Pellet form holds the largest share due to high density and food grade suitability. The industrial segment accounts for about 57 % of end use demand, while transportation (pharmaceuticals and online food deliveries) is expanding rapidly.
Global demand for dry ice is growing about 5 % annually, but CO₂ supply has increased only around 0.5 %. This mismatch creates periodic shortages, with spot prices surging up to 300 % during supply crunches. The global market is forecast to grow from USD 1.54 billion in 2024 to USD 2.73 billion by 2032 (CAGR ≈7.4 %). To address supply issues, companies are investing in local CO₂ capture plants, bio based sources and mixing dry ice with PCMs to stretch supply.
Key trends shaping 2025 and beyond
Sustainability and circular economy: The PPWR requires all packaging placed on the EU market to be recyclable by 2030. Manufacturers are redesigning dry ice pack materials to reduce virgin plastics, incorporate recycled content and facilitate reuse. Reusable PCM plates and gel packs help reduce waste.
Digital temperature monitoring: Calibrated data loggers and real time monitoring systems are essential for maintaining quality and regulatory resilience. IoT sensors transmit data to dashboards, allowing shippers to intervene if temperatures deviate.
Automation and smart packaging: Automated packaging lines, pre conditioned pack dispensers and RFID tagged containers streamline operations and improve traceability.
Self venting VIP lids and on site pelletisers: New designs such as self venting vacuum insulated panel lids can withstand three times the IATA pressure spec, while on site pelletisers help mitigate CO₂ shortages and reduce Scope 3 emissions.
AI driven coolant dosing: Machine learning algorithms predict sublimation rates within ±5 % and optimise dry ice usage. AI lane modelling can reduce coolant spend by 10–15 %.
Recyclable padded mailers: New R6.1 recyclable padded mailers keep −15 °C for 48 hours and are curbside recyclable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need a hazmat declaration for dry ice?
A: Not when dry ice is used to cool non dangerous goods. You must label the package with the UN 1845 code and net weight, but no declaration is required.
Q2: How long does 5 lb of dry ice last?
A: In a 30 mm EPS container at 21 °C ambient temperature, 5 lb (~2.3 kg) of dry ice lasts approximately 30–36 hours. Always add a 20 % buffer for unexpected delays.
Q3: Can I switch to PCM to avoid hazmat fees?
A: Yes. PCM bricks at −22 °C are effective for goods that can tolerate −15 °C. Always test lane performance before switching.
Q4: What are the weight limits for shipping dry ice by air?
A: Airlines restrict dry ice to 200 kg per package and may set lower limits. Provide the net weight during booking so the carrier can determine aircraft limits.
Q5: How should customers dispose of dry ice?
A: Let unused dry ice sublimate outdoors in a well ventilated area; never dispose of it in sinks or closed rooms.
Summary and recommendations
Europe’s cold chain is expanding rapidly, and dry ice packs offer the ultra cold performance needed to keep vaccines, biologics and frozen foods safe during transport. Key takeaways:
Ultra cold performance & convenience: Dry ice packs maintain −60 °C to −40 °C temperatures for 36–72 hours without meltwater. Their leak proof, flexible design offers handling and space advantages.
Follow packing rules: Pre cool products, calculate the right amount of dry ice and vent the container. Label shipments with the UN 1845 code and net weight..
Comply with regulations: Respect the 200 kg per package weight limit, ADR/IATA labelling and documentation requirements. Prepare for new EU PPWR rules on recyclability and recycled content.
Plan for sustainability: Choose recyclable packaging materials, consider reusable PCM plates and monitor temperature digitally to reduce waste and meet ESG targets.
Stay informed: The Europe dry ice market is growing but faces supply constraints; invest in hybrid solutions (dry ice + PCM), AI dosing tools and local CO₂ sources to optimise performance and mitigate shortages.
Actionable next steps
Assess your shipment profile: Determine your product’s temperature range, transit time and volume to select the appropriate dry ice pack or alternative.
Use the dry ice calculator: Apply the simple formula (product mass ×1.1 × transit days × 1.15) to estimate required dry ice.
Invest in training and documentation: Train staff on ADR/IATA rules, implement checklists and document net weight and labelling to pass audits.
Explore sustainable materials: Start testing recyclable liners and reusable PCM plates to meet PPWR requirements and reduce carbon footprint.
Leverage technology: Adopt data loggers and AI driven tools to monitor temperature and optimise coolant usage.
Contact Tempk for expertise: Work with a cold chain specialist to customise solutions, conduct validation tests and ensure regulatory compliance.
About Tempk
Tempk (Shanghai Huizhou Industrial Co., Ltd.) is a high tech enterprise specialising in cold chain packaging and temperature control products. Founded in 2011 with a registered capital of 30 million, the company operates seven factories and serves major pharmaceutical groups and fresh food e commerce companies. Tempk’s dry ice packs are reusable, provide precise temperature control and save space in logistics operations. Their portfolio includes gel ice packs, dry ice packs, freezer bricks, insulated bags, EPP and VIP containers. With a focus on research and development, Tempk delivers eco friendly, reusable and recyclable cold chain solutions.
Call to action: For tailored Europe dry ice pack solutions or to request a sample, contact Tempk’s cold chain specialists. They can help you design compliant packaging, reduce costs and achieve sustainable performance.
